Questions: “I have had diffuse pattern thinning as long as I can remember. My hair loss slowed down considerably, and I am now 23 and still have reasonable coverage. However, my hair loss has not stopped, and that’s what I’m hoping for. I began using 5% minoxidil a year ago and achieved good results. My hair was much stronger, and I noticed some regrowth. I began to develop a reaction to it after some time and was prescribed a topical steroid and advised by my doctor to stop using it. My hair loss has now come back, so I started using 2% minoxidil, which has not really helped, but I’ve had no reaction to it. I have now tried 5% minoxidil without azelaic acid for about a week, and I’ve noticed a noticeable slowing of hair loss, and so far, no reaction. I was prescribed Propecia because they told me I was too young for a transplant. Though I am kind of nervous to start taking it, I must say. I’ve read mixed reviews about Propecia.
What do you think? Take both minoxidil and Propecia, just Propecia? I’d appreciate your advice.”
Answer: “Propecia is the more effective solution for the young balding man, assuming that you really have genetic hair loss. I have mentioned over and over again that you need to establish a baseline measurement (metric) for the degree of miniaturization before you start drugs like Propecia, because you need to know what the benefit is over time. These miniaturization measurements are invaluable for that purpose. Minoxidil with acid compounds tend to irritate the skin over time. The use of steroids work to manage the irritation, but chronic use of them will cause hair loss. Get a doctor to work with you so you know what you are doing. Good Luck”
